Ronald Branson

  Ronald James Branson, age 72 of Vichy, Mo., passed away January 1, 2017 at the Phelps County Regional Medical Center in Rolla. Ronald was born on May 3, 1944 in St. Louis, Mo, a son to Jesse and Melia Branson. On June 2, 1962, he was united in marriage to Mary Mertz who survives of the home. Ronald was a member of the Mt. Calvary Lutheran church in Belle and the United Steel Workers. Ronald enjoyed nature and being outdoors, cutting grass and brush hogging. He enjoyed going on float trips with his father and hearing stories about the old timers in his family, but most of all he loved being with his family and spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.   Survivors include one son, Pat Branson with his wife Krista of St. James, MO., one daughter, Kathy Branson-McKee and her husband Chopper of Pacific, MO., five grandchildren, Sarah McKinley and her husband Bill of Union, Mo., Niki Cash of Piedmont, MO., Richard Hulsey of Pacific, Mo., Preston Kelly of St. James, Mo., Eric Branson of Licking, MO., six great- grandchildren, Madison, Cami, Colin, Mason, Riley and Ethan. Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Melia Branson, and two sisters, Marceline Spencer and Delores Diesel. There will be no service held at this time. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Patient Care Assistance Fund C/O Dr. Tamara Hopkins 1704 Christy Court Suite 500 Jefferson City, MO. 65101. Arrangements are under the direction of Rolla Cremation and Memorial (573-341-0220) www.rollacremation.com